Importance of Fruit and Vegetable

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Fruits and vegetables are two of the most important components of a balanced diet, yet it can be difficult to consume enough of them to meet your body's nutritional needs. Fruits and vegetables, fortunately, have benefits beyond merely providing nutrients to your diet. Vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables are important for maintaining excellent health, warding off harmful diseases, strengthening your immune system, and aiding healthy weight management. Here are 10 fruit and vegetable health advantages to help you get the most out of this important food category!

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1) Antioxidants

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Consuming large amounts of antioxidant-rich foods like fruits and vegetables reduces your risk for a variety of health problems, including heart disease, cancer, arthritis, cataracts, diabetes. One study even found that people who ate more fruits had lower levels of arsenic in their blood. When choosing what to eat from each food group (fruits/vegetables), try to lean toward fresh produce instead of processed foods.

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2) Fiber

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Fiber is one of many reasons fruits and vegetables are so good for you. It helps keep your digestive system healthy by preventing constipation, reducing cholesterol levels, and easing pressure on your kidneys. You’ll also find that consuming lots of fiber can help lower your blood pressure by keeping it regulated.

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3) Improve Eyesight

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Beta-carotene, which is abundant in orange-colored fruits and vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, mangoes, cantaloupe, sweet potatoes and apricots. Vitamin A is also essential for healthy eyesight. Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach are great sources of vitamin A.

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4) Lower Risk of Heart Disease

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Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables has long been associated with lower rates of heart disease. One recent study shows that eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day may lower your risk for developing coronary artery disease by as much as 35 percent. This is thought to be due to an increase in blood flow that is caused by an increase in nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels. This means less plaque buildup, which can lead to heart attacks or strokes.

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5) Improve Digestion

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The fiber found in fruits and vegetables also promotes good digestion. Additionally, many vitamins and minerals contained in these foods are essential for a healthy digestive system. As an added bonus, most fruits have a natural laxative effect. So by eating fruit regularly, you’ll help keep your bowels regular, which is beneficial to your overall health.